Parametric modelling of space frame structures

This paper presents method of creating models of geometrically complicated building structures that can be readily used for finite element analysis and easily adjusted if necessary. This method involves parametric based modelling to enable close interaction between geometry design and structural analysis. We demonstrate the scheme with a case study of space frame structure. The scheme shows how to generate geometry of a frame out of specific information using CATIA software in first case and Grasshopper software in second case. Geometry parameters management is presented as a main impact factor while constructing model. Finally connection to the finite element analysis programs is discussed. The comparison between methods of different software application is presented.